Bruxism is a Real Grind

Bruxism is the technical name for grinding, gnashing, and/or clenching your teeth. It is considered a para-functional activity, which means an abnormal or deviated dental function or habit that is subconscious. The term Bruxism comes from the Greek word “brygmós” which means “to grind or gnash the opposing rows of upper and lower molar teeth.”

On average, your upper and lower teeth come into direct contact for about 20 minutes a day, with only 20-40 pounds of pressure. People who suffer with Bruxism’s upper and lower teeth come into direct contact for as long as 40 minutes per hour, with a force of about 250 pounds!

The grinding, gnashing and/or clenching mainly occur unconsciously; in most cases while you’re asleep. In more severe cases, some people find themselves clenching during the day as well. If you catch yourself clenching be sure to stop and stretch your jaw – move your lower jaw back and forth in a circular motion, changing rotation. Hearing popping or clicking noises is fairly common in people with Bruxism, so be sure to inform us if this occurs as it can indicate Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) as well as Bruxism.

Bruxism can cause your teeth to become worn down, fractured, and/or chipped. It can also wear down your tooth enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and susceptibility to cavities. Not only does it deteriorate your teeth, it can also cause headaches, earaches, chronic facial pain, and jaw tension.

You should make an appointment with us if you’re experiencing a combination of any of the following issues:

Symptoms of Bruxism

Grinding sound at night

Dull headache in the morning

Facial Pain

Tight or painful jaw muscles, especially in the morning

Worn down, flattened, fractured, or chipped teeth

Tired jaw muscles

Anxiety, stress and tension

Depression

Earache

Eating disorders

Headaches

Hot, cold, and/or sweet tooth sensitivity

Insomnia

Painful, sore jaw

Possible Causes of Bruxism

Because the origin of Bruxism is not completely understood, any number of the following items may be possible causes:

Experienced and anticipated stressors are considered a main factor. People who are stressed often carry tension with them to bed, causing them to grind, gnash and clench at night

Suppressed anger, frustration, and aggression

Misaligned upper and lower teeth (malocclusion). The verdict is still out as to why malocclusion is such a common component with Bruxism, but doctors have found that it is prevalent amongst sufferers

People with depressive and anxiety disorders are more likely to suffer from Bruxism

Bruxism is an uncommon side effect of certain psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants

Often Bruxism is partnered with other sleeping disorders, such as insomnia, sleep walking, and nightmares

Bruxism can be a result of complications from a disorder such as Huntington’s disease or Parkinson’s disease

Stimulating substances such as smoking tobacco, drinking caffeinated beverages and/or alcohol, taking illegal drugs such as methamphetamines and ecstasy also increases the risk of Bruxism

Age – Bruxism is common in children, but typically goes away by adolescence (See below for Bruxism in Children)

Other things such as diet, your ability to relax, low pH levels (high acidity), posture, and sleeping habits may also be contributors.

It is best to speak with us to determine the possible causes of Bruxism for you, and the best way to treat it.

Children with Bruxism

According to experts, two to three out of every ten children will grind or clench their teeth. While most children will outgrow this, it is important to cover both the physical and potentially psychological factors that can cause Bruxism.

Bruxism in children is often a response to the pain caused by teething or an earache. As with adults, it is also linked to the abnormal alignment of the top and bottom teeth.

With children, Bruxism can be an early warning sign of both experienced and anticipated stress. It has become more common for children with Bruxism to regularly see their doctor, as well as to receive psychological treatment, such as counseling, to help alleviate stressors.

Medical conditions such as cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s disease can also cause a child to clench and/or grind. Hyperactive children (ADHD) commonly experience Bruxism as well.

Working with us to establish care for your child with Bruxism will help create better habits and give you practical solutions so that your child can live clench/grind free. Please feel free to call our office to make an appointment if you think you or your child might be experiencing Bruxism.

Posted by
cwilliams on
Jan 8th, 2014 4:42 pm
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